Ethical Standards

Southern Cross Academic Press follows the ethical principles and best-practice guidelines established by the Committee on Publication Ethics (COPE). The journal is committed to upholding integrity, transparency, and accountability throughout the editorial and publication process.

In line with COPE’s Core Practices, the journal regularly reviews its editorial policies and welcomes feedback from authors, reviewers, and editorial board members to improve publication quality and ethical standards.

All manuscripts submitted to the journal undergo a double-blind peer review process, conducted in accordance with COPE recommendations. Reviews are carried out by qualified editorial board members and independent experts with appropriate academic and subject-area expertise. Editorial checks are performed to ensure clarity, accuracy, and compliance with academic and ethical standards. Minor technical or language edits may be applied where necessary to improve readability, without altering the scholarly content.

Research Misconduct Policy 

The journal follows COPE guidelines on research misconduct when addressing ethical concerns. Research misconduct includes, but is not limited to:

  • Duplicate submission or redundant publication

  • Plagiarism or inappropriate reuse of text, data, or ideas without proper citation

  • Data fabrication or falsification

When a concern is raised by reviewers, editors, or readers, the editorial office conducts an initial assessment in line with COPE flowcharts for handling suspected misconduct. Authors are contacted and given the opportunity to respond and provide clarification.

If an error is acknowledged, appropriate corrective actions may be taken, including the publication of corrections or notices, in accordance with COPE guidance on post-publication issues. If the author fails to provide a satisfactory explanation or the integrity of the work cannot be verified, the manuscript may be rejected. For published articles, actions may include issuing an expression of concern or retraction, following COPE recommendations.

In cases of non-response or unresolved disputes, the matter may be referred to the author’s affiliated institution, as advised by COPE.

Authorship Changes Policy 

The journal follows COPE guidance on authorship and contributorship when handling requests for changes in authorship. Requests may be submitted either before or after publication and may include:

  • Addition or removal of an author

  • Addition or removal of a corresponding author

All requests must be made in writing and include a clear explanation for the proposed change. In accordance with COPE recommendations, written consent from all listed authors is required before any authorship modification is approved.

If all authors agree, the requested change will be implemented. If consensus cannot be reached, the manuscript or published article may be placed on hold until the matter is resolved. In post-publication cases where disputes remain unresolved, the issue may be referred to the authors’ affiliated institutions, consistent with COPE best practices.

More Details for COPE Guidelines.......